Former Super Falcons international Gift Okunwa-Igunbor has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for failing to organise friendly matches for the national women’s team during the recent international window — a decision she described as wasteful, damaging, and completely unacceptable for reigning African champions.
Speaking passionately, Okunwa-Igunbor said the Super Falcons cannot expect to compete with the world’s best when they are not being properly prepared.
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“We are African champions — how can we go through an entire window without even one friendly?” she asked in disbelief.
She argued that friendly matches are not just routine fixtures; they are essential tools for squad evaluation, tactical improvement, and chemistry building, especially when new and home-based players need integration.
“This is the perfect time to blend new players, test strategies, and build rhythm. Training alone can never replace the value of real match situations,” she explained.
Okunwa-Igunbor, who played during an era when the Falcons dominated Africa, expressed concern that Nigeria is slipping behind other nations who take preparation seriously. She pointed to Morocco, South Africa, Zambia, and Senegal — nations that consistently line up quality friendlies to sharpen their teams.
“Look at other African teams — they are playing matches, improving, testing formations. We are sitting idle. That is not how champions prepare,” she said.
She further warned that failing to prepare properly could backfire at major tournaments, especially as global women’s football continues to evolve rapidly.
“Every year the game is getting tougher. If we don’t adapt, we will be left behind,” she said.
Okunwa-Igunbor urged the NFF to take its responsibility seriously by organizing quality fixtures during every available window, ensuring the team remains competitive and connected.
“The players need rhythm, they need confidence, they need understanding — and all that comes from matches, not just camping,” she added.
